For the first time in 16 years, the World Pipe Band Championships have been won by a group from outside the UK. The Simon Fraser University pipe band from Canada clinched the prestigious title after a competitive two-day event held at Glasgow Green. Teams from across the globe gathered to compete, with the Northern Ireland-based Field Marshal Montgomery pipe band taking second place and the Peoples Ford Boghall and Bathgate Caledonia band finishing third.

The competition featured an impressive lineup of 211 bands representing 14 countries, including youth bands. Participants came from diverse nations such as Australia, New Zealand, Oman, France, Malaysia, Sweden, Switzerland, and Germany, highlighting the worldwide appeal of this celebrated event. The championships, known affectionately as “the Worlds,” showcased a high level of talent and dedication in a fiercely contested field.

Colin Mulhern, chief executive of the Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association, expressed his gratitude to everyone involved, stating, “We would like to extend our sincere thanks to all the competing bands, supporters and spectators who joined us throughout our 2026 World Pipe Band Championships. This year’s World Championships provided a truly thrilling and fiercely contested competition.” He also congratulated the Simon Fraser University band on their achievement and praised all participants for their skill and commitment.

The event was organized by Glasgow Life, with chairwoman Bailie Annette Christie emphasizing the significance of hosting the championships. She remarked, “The Worlds are such an important event for the city.” Christie highlighted how the competition, along with the Piping Live! festival, creates the biggest week of piping globally, drawing top musicians and boosting tourism. According to her, the championships bring considerable economic benefits to both Glasgow and Scotland, while celebrating the rich tradition of pipe band music on an international stage

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